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Delaware Park faces a mild autumn day with favorable racing conditions for their nine-race Thursday card. The track is running fast on the dirt with first post at 12:45 PM, setting the stage for competitive action across claiming, allowance, and maiden special weight races.
Weather and Track Conditions
Current conditions at Delaware Park show fair weather with temperatures around 55°F, light winds from the north-northeast at 15 mph, and 47% humidity. The forecast calls for sunny skies throughout the racing day, ideal for both dirt and turf racing. Track conditions are listed as fast on the main track, providing consistent footing for handicappers to analyze.
The turf course is currently firm with the rail at 35 feet for races 4 and 6, though management has taken precautionary measures with some turf races in recent days. October temperatures in Delaware typically range from 53-66°F, making today’s conditions well within normal parameters for the season.
Race-by-Race Analysis
Race 1 – $16,000 Claiming (1 Mile)
Key Contenders: Mikey’s Jewel arrives off a victory and represents solid value in this claiming event for older fillies and mares. The 7-year-old mare has shown consistent recent form and benefits from the strong riding of Madeline Rowland. Ribbonsinherhair figures as the most likely winner but her inconsistent form pattern makes her vulnerable at short odds.
Secondary Choices: Lachicafortequila enters just a couple races removed from competitive efforts that match this level. The Mark Shuman trainee with Jose Batista aboard could factor at a price.
Longshots to Consider: Judith’s Cross drops significantly in class after recent struggles, while Forgotten Gift returns with the apprentice weight allowance that could prove beneficial in a competitive field.
Pace Analysis: This mile event should develop a moderate early pace with several horses possessing tactical speed. The race sets up well for horses with closing ability or those able to secure favorable stalking positions.
Wagering Recommendation: Mikey’s Jewel offers the best value for win betting, while using Ribbonsinherhair and Lachicafortequila in exacta combinations provides coverage of the most likely scenarios.
Race 2 – Starter Optional Claiming ($20,000, 5.5 Furlongs)
Key Contenders: He’s in Charge seeks his ninth consecutive starter allowance victory, a remarkable streak that makes him the standout selection despite his advanced age of seven. The Martin Chuan trainee has found his niche in this division and shows no signs of slowing down.
Secondary Choices: Al Ameeq figures prominently in the early pace development and showed competitive spirit when battling the favorite in his latest start. The Heights rallied effectively for third behind the top choice previously and seeks similar improvement.
Longshots to Consider: My Mamba and Mahomes Money both enter with class relief that could spark improved efforts at generous odds.
Pace Analysis: The sprint distance creates natural pace pressure, with Al Ameeq likely to contest the early lead. This scenario favors He’s in Charge’s tactical ability to position effectively.
Wagering Recommendation: He’s in Charge deserves strong win consideration given his remarkable consistency in this division, with Al Ameeq and The Heights providing exacta coverage.
Race 3 – $45,000 Maiden Special Weight (6 Furlongs, 2YO)
Key Contenders: Bolt Del Marea has been training impressively with morning workouts that significantly outpace his competition. The Bolt d’Oro colt’s September 12th work was four-fifths faster than any rival, indicating serious readiness.
Secondary Choices: Hollywood Import represents the productive Gary Capuano barn and cost $50,000 at auction, suggesting quality breeding. Just Jo Jo, a pricey Constitution colt, is a half-brother to a first-out winner, providing additional pedigree appeal.
Longshots to Consider: Cornwall Boss and Workhard Playhard both show decent breeding and could offer value if the favorites falter.
Pace Analysis: The two-year-old debut nature creates uncertainty, but Bolt Del Marea’s superior training suggests readiness to handle early pace scenarios.
Wagering Recommendation: Bolt Del Marea merits strong consideration based on his impressive work pattern, with Hollywood Import and Just Jo Jo providing logical backup options.
Race 4 – $22,000 Claiming (1 1/16 Miles Turf)
Key Contenders: Cloud Music should secure an easier trip as the likely pacesetter after being pressured throughout his last start. The 5-year-old has proven capable at this level and benefits from the distance.
Secondary Choices: American Unity possesses solid overall form with victories against stronger competition, though his last effort as beaten favorite was disappointing. Maxwell Esquire makes his third start off a layoff with added distance potentially helping his cause.
Longshots to Consider: Mailman Money drops from higher levels and could represent value if connections are trying to place him before turf season ends.
Pace Analysis: The large field creates multiple pace scenarios on the turf course, with Cloud Music’s early speed providing tactical advantage in the extended distance.
Wagering Recommendation: Cloud Music offers solid win potential, while American Unity and Maxwell Esquire provide reasonable exacta coverage in this competitive turf event.
Race 5 – $46,000 Allowance (5.5 Furlongs)
This allowance event for fillies and mares three years old and upward presents an intriguing sprint field with several legitimate contenders and compelling storylines.
Field Analysis and Contenders
Royal Princess (3-1) emerges as the most consistent performer in this field with recent form that directly translates to this level. The Brittany Russell trainee finished a close third in similar company last time out, demonstrating her ability to compete against this caliber of competition. Her tactical speed allows her to either press the pace or stalk from an ideal position in this sprint distance. Kevin Gomez retains the mount, providing continuity from her recent efforts.
Rock the Rainbow (4-1) presents the most intriguing wildcard in the field with her spectacular 18-length debut victory over a year ago. While the extended layoff creates obvious questions, her dominant initial performance suggests significant ability when ready. The key factor favoring her chances is that Samuel Marin retains the mount, indicating connections maintain confidence despite the lengthy absence. Her breeding suggests she should handle the distance well, and if fit, her natural speed could prove difficult to overcome.
Crusader Rabbit (6-1) offers compelling value as the “other” Russell trainee, with husband Sheldon Russell taking the riding assignment. Her last appearance in 2024 showed no significant flaws, and trainer Brittany Russell maintains a strong 30% strike rate with positive return on investment following similar lengthy breaks. The Russell barn’s current form suggests aggressive placement, making this filly a serious threat at generous odds.
Howler (3-1) represents the early pace threat with recent form that suggests readiness for this assignment. Angel Cruz takes the mount for trainer Cathal Lynch, and her ability to control early fractions could prove decisive if she can maintain her kick through the stretch.
Secondary Contenders
Valhalla Vixen (8-1) adds experience to this field and could benefit from the pace scenario. Julio Hernandez’s presence in the irons provides confidence, as he continues to rank among the meet’s leading riders. Her best form would make her competitive, though recent efforts suggest she may need the perfect setup.
Old Bay (8-1) represents trainer Mark Shuman with Martin Chuan aboard, a combination that merits respect given Chuan’s current meet-leading statistics. Her form pattern suggests she could be cycling back to her better efforts.
Warriors Jewel (15-1) provides the longest shot with legitimate chances if the pace unfolds favorably. Jose Mauricio takes the assignment for trainer Jesus Rodriguez, and her experience could prove valuable if the favorites encounter trouble.
Pace Analysis
This sprint should develop into a moderate to strong early pace with both Royal Princess and Howler possessing tactical speed to position near the early leaders. Rock the Rainbow’s natural speed, if she shows readiness, could create additional pressure up front. The pace scenario favors horses with tactical ability who can secure favorable stalking positions, particularly given the competitive nature of the field.
The 5.5-furlong distance allows little margin for error, making early positioning crucial for success. Horses breaking alertly and securing favorable trips should have significant advantages over those encountering trouble or forced to make wide moves.
Key Angles and Considerations
The Russell training factor looms large with both Royal Princess and Crusader Rabbit representing the barn’s current hot streak. Brittany Russell’s statistics following layoffs strongly favor Crusader Rabbit, while Royal Princess benefits from consistent recent form.
Samuel Marin’s retention of the mount on Rock the Rainbow after her layoff suggests connections believe she’s ready to reproduce her debut brilliance. His recent hot streak, including Wednesday’s triple, adds credibility to this choice.
The allowance level creates a competitive environment where small margins often determine outcomes. Form advantages become magnified, making Royal Princess’s recent consistency particularly valuable.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Bet: Royal Princess offers the best combination of recent form, tactical ability, and competitive advantages against this field. Her consistency at this level provides confidence for win betting.
Value Play: Crusader Rabbit represents exceptional value given the Russell barn’s statistics with horses returning from layoffs. Her odds appear generous considering her trainer’s success rate in similar situations.
Exacta Strategy: Key Royal Princess on top with Crusader Rabbit, Rock the Rainbow, and Howler underneath. The reverse combination using Crusader Rabbit over Royal Princess could provide significant value if the layoff filly reproduces her best form.
Longshot Consideration: Warriors Jewel at 15-1 could provide substantial value in exacta and trifecta combinations if included as a deeper coverage option.
The race sets up as a competitive allowance sprint where form, fitness, and tactical positioning will determine the outcome, with Royal Princess offering the most reliable profile for success.
Race 6 – $45,000 Maiden Special Weight Turf (7.5 Furlongs, 2YO Fillies)
This competitive maiden special weight event for two-year-old fillies on the turf presents a challenging puzzle with 14 runners and several compelling storylines. The large field creates multiple pace scenarios and tactical considerations on Delaware Park’s firm turf course with the rail positioned at 35 feet.
Primary Contenders
Undertone (5-2) emerges as the logical favorite after showing determination in her debut effort. The daughter of Union Rags demonstrated she could “stick with it pretty well” in her first start and now gets the benefit of blinkers for her second outing. Her pedigree adds significant appeal, as her dam was a Grade 3 winner on the main track, suggesting class and ability. Julio Hernandez takes the mount, providing veteran guidance for this promising filly.
Matadora (7-2) brings the highest level of recent experience, having been a beaten favorite in her last two starts, including a maiden event at Saratoga. While disappointing as a favorite, her connections with trainer H. Graham Motion and their willingness to run at prestigious venues suggests significant ability. Kevin Gomez retains the mount, indicating confidence despite recent setbacks.
Thula (4-1) represents an intriguing rebound candidate from the powerful Graham Motion stable. Despite a “disastrous debut,” Motion keeps her in maiden special weight company rather than dropping to claiming levels, suggesting the trainer believes in her ability. The key factor favoring her chances is the assignment of go-to turf rider Jorge Ruiz, Motion’s preferred jockey for grass assignments.
Secondary Contenders
Good Golly Msfolly (8-1) was “badly outfooted going short” in her debut but now gets additional ground at 7.5 furlongs for her second start. The extra distance could prove beneficial if she possesses more tactical speed than her debut suggested. Angel Cruz takes the assignment for trainer Cathal Lynch, and her breeding suggests turf suitability.
La Pluma (10-1) represents trainer Jose Lozano Sanchez with Sonny Leon taking the riding assignment. While lacking racing experience, her connections suggest competitive intentions in maiden special weight company.
Fantasy Affair (12-1) adds another dimension with trainer Gary Contessa and jockey Raul Mena. Her breeding and connections indicate she could factor if showing natural turf ability in her debut.
Longshot Considerations
Kinda Clever (15-1) represents the powerful Michael Matz training operation with Julio Hernandez aboard. The trainer’s reputation with two-year-olds and the jockey’s current form create potential value.
Hidden Rose (20-1) gets the services of leading rider Martin Chuan for trainer Miguel Clement. Chuan’s meet-leading statistics could provide an edge if this filly shows natural ability.
Au Courant (25-1) represents trainer Kelly Colgan with Alexander Crispin taking the mount. While a longshot, maiden races often produce surprising results with first-time starters.
Pace Analysis
The large 14-horse field creates significant pace dynamics on the turf course. With numerous first-time starters and limited form to analyze, the pace scenario remains uncertain. The 7.5-furlong distance allows for tactical development, with horses possessing natural turf speed having advantages over those needing to learn on the job.
The firm turf conditions with the rail at 35 feet should provide consistent footing, though post position becomes crucial with such a large field. Horses breaking alertly and securing favorable stalking positions will have significant advantages over those encountering traffic troubles.
Key Training and Jockey Angles
Graham Motion’s double representation with Thula and Matadora indicates serious intentions. Motion’s assignment of Jorge Ruiz to Thula despite her poor debut suggests confidence in improvement, while Matadora’s retention in special weight company after Saratoga efforts shows continued belief.
The blinker addition to Undertone for her second start typically indicates trainer confidence in improvement. Combined with her dam’s Grade 3 winning record, this equipment change suggests readiness for a forward move.
Julio Hernandez’s presence on both Undertone and Kinda Clever creates an interesting handicapping angle, though he can only ride one. His choice will provide valuable insight into connections’ confidence levels.
Breeding and Pedigree Considerations
Two-year-old maiden turf races often favor fillies with appropriate breeding for grass surfaces. Undertone’s dam being a Grade 3 winner provides the strongest pedigree credentials in the field. Matadora’s Saratoga connections suggest quality breeding suitable for prestigious venues.
The maiden special weight level indicates most runners possess reasonable breeding credentials, making debut performances and training patterns crucial evaluation factors.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Bet: Undertone offers the best combination of debut form, pedigree credentials, and positive trainer moves with the blinker addition. Her demonstration of determination in her first start provides confidence for the longer turf distance.
Value Play: Thula represents compelling value given Graham Motion’s confidence in keeping her in special weight company despite her poor debut. Jorge Ruiz’s assignment adds credibility to the selection, as Motion typically reserves his top turf rider for horses he believes can compete.
Exacta Strategy: Key Undertone on top with Thula and Matadora providing the most logical coverage. The reverse combinations could provide significant value if either Graham Motion runner springs the upset.
Longshot Consideration: Good Golly Msfolly at 8-1 deserves inclusion in deeper exacta and trifecta combinations, particularly if the added distance proves beneficial after her debut effort.
The race presents a classic maiden turf scenario where debut form, breeding, and trainer confidence indicators become crucial handicapping factors, with Undertone offering the most reliable profile for success.
Race 7 – $46,000 Allowance Optional Claiming (1 Mile)
This allowance optional claiming event for fillies and mares presents a compact seven-horse field with several intriguing storylines and a clear class advantage for one runner. The one-mile distance on Delaware Park’s fast main track should produce tactical racing with multiple scenarios possible.
Primary Contenders
Sassafrassness (5-2) stands out as the most compelling selection based on both recent form and trainer statistics. The Jamie Ness trainee dominated her last start over this same course and distance on August 27th, winning by multiple lengths after being claimed. The key statistic supporting her chances is Ness’s remarkable 37% win rate second off the claim following a victory. This pattern perfectly fits Sassafrassness’s current situation, making her the logical favorite despite the short odds.
Her last victory came in impressive fashion, defeating Fiveclocksomewhere (who she faces again today) and several other quality runners. The stretch to two turns appears beneficial based on her racing style, and Martin Chuan’s assignment provides additional confidence given his meet-leading statistics.
Naked Eye (8-5) enters as the morning line favorite after receiving a freshening following two forgivable efforts in graded company and on turf. The Derek Ryan trainee possesses the highest recent form ratings and should appreciate the return to dirt racing. Her connections kept her in graded stakes company throughout the summer, suggesting significant ability when properly placed.
The key factors favoring Naked Eye include her class advantage over most of this field and the surface switch back to dirt after turf efforts. Sonny Leon takes the riding assignment, providing veteran guidance for this well-bred filly.
Secondary Contenders
Vanilla Sundae (4-1) represents significant class relief after competing at higher levels throughout her career. The Gun Runner filly from the powerful Todd Pletcher stable has been transferred to Brittany Russell for this Delaware assignment. Her breeding suggests she should handle the mile distance well, and the class drop could spark improvement.
However, her route record raises some questions about her effectiveness at longer distances, making this assignment somewhat speculative. Sheldon Russell takes the riding assignment, creating another Russell training partnership entry.
Atlantis Queen (6-1) receives significant weight relief at just 113 pounds with apprentice jockey Yedsit Hazlewood. The Gary Capuano trainee could benefit from the light impost if able to secure a favorable stalking position.
Longshot Considerations
Promisemeanempire (8-1) brings experience and versatility to this field with trainer Dan Ward. Julio Hernandez’s assignment adds credibility, as he continues to rank among the meet’s most successful riders.
Code Name Willow (10-1) represents trainer Jaclyn Reed with Jose Mauricio taking the riding assignment. While lacking the form of the top contenders, maiden races can produce surprising results with proper pace scenarios.
Fiveclocksomewhere (15-1) finished second to Sassafrassness in their last meeting and could offer value if able to turn the tables. Trainer Pedro Nazario with Raul Mena aboard provides a competent combination for this longer shot.
Pace Analysis
The small seven-horse field should develop a moderate pace scenario with several horses possessing tactical speed. Sassafrassness showed the ability to rate in her last victory, while Naked Eye’s versatility allows her to adapt to different pace scenarios.
The one-mile distance provides ample time for tactical development, favoring horses with the ability to secure favorable stalking positions and accelerate in the stretch. The fast track conditions should benefit horses with tactical speed rather than pure closers.
Key Training Angles
Jamie Ness’s statistics with claimed horses create the strongest trainer angle in the race. His 37% success rate second off the claim following a victory directly applies to Sassafrassness’s situation. This pattern has proven remarkably consistent throughout his career, making it a crucial handicapping factor.
The Russell training presence with Vanilla Sundae adds another dimension, as the barn’s recent success suggests aggressive placement strategies. However, the class drop for Vanilla Sundae may indicate connections are trying to place her rather than expecting significant improvement.
Class and Form Analysis
Naked Eye possesses the highest class credentials with her graded stakes efforts, though her recent form on turf was disappointing. Her return to dirt racing could spark improvement, particularly if the summer turf campaign was simply a surface experiment.
Sassafrassness’s last victory produced multiple next-out winners, indicating the strength of that performance. The race quality suggests she defeated legitimate competition rather than taking advantage of a weak field.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Bet: Sassafrassness offers exceptional value based on Jamie Ness’s statistics and her dominant last performance. The 37% trainer win rate in this exact situation provides strong statistical support for the selection.
Value Play: While Naked Eye is favored on the morning line, her odds appear short given the questions about her recent form and surface preferences. Sassafrassness provides better value at slightly higher odds.
Exacta Strategy: Key Sassafrassness on top with Naked Eye and Vanilla Sundae providing the most logical coverage. The small field makes exotic wagering more predictable, with these three fillies offering the highest probability combinations.
Pace Angle: The moderate pace scenario should benefit horses with tactical speed, making Sassafrassness’s rating ability a significant advantage. Her ability to secure a good stalking position and accelerate should prove decisive.
The race sets up as a two-horse battle between Sassafrassness and Naked Eye, with trainer statistics strongly favoring the Ness runner in this specific claiming-to-allowance scenario.
Race 8 – $47,000 Allowance Optional Claiming (5.5 Furlongs)
This competitive allowance optional claiming sprint for fillies and mares presents a quality seven-horse field with several strong contenders and intriguing pace dynamics. The 5.5-furlong distance on Delaware Park’s fast main track should produce tactical racing with multiple scenarios possible.
Primary Contenders
Vieux Carre (10-1) represents exceptional value as a pace-dependent closer in what shapes up as an ideal scenario. With only seven career starts, she may still be learning her trade and should benefit significantly from the projected pace setup. Her late-running style fits perfectly with the speed-laden composition of this field, making her the most logical choice to pick up the pieces in the stretch.
The key factor favoring Vieux Carre is the pace scenario that should develop with multiple speed horses likely to engage early. Bruce Kravets trains this daughter of Klimt, and jockey Yabriel Ramos takes the assignment. Her morning line odds of 10-1 appear generous given the favorable setup.
Drink This Cup (8-5) enters as the morning line favorite after destroying a Connecticut allowance field in her last start. That performance has produced multiple next-out winners, indicating the strength of the race she defeated. Michael Stidham trains this daughter of Stay Thirsty, with Julio Hernandez taking the riding assignment.
Her recent form suggests she’s ready for this level, though the early pace pressure could work against her tactical speed style. The key question is whether she can handle the faster pace likely to develop in this competitive field.
Secondary Contenders
Summer’s Comin (8-1) had recent tough outings but showed much better form three races back at Delaware Park. The Michael Dini trainee possesses course and distance winning form, which provides confidence for this assignment. Francisco Martinez takes the riding assignment, creating a competent combination.
Her form pattern suggests she could be cycling back to her better efforts, making her an intriguing value proposition at her morning line odds. The key is whether she can recapture the form that made her competitive at this level previously.
My Flicker (4-1) drops in class after competing at higher levels throughout her career. The 7-year-old mare from trainer Phillip Capuano brings significant experience to this field. Carlos Eduardo Lopez takes the riding assignment, providing veteran guidance.
Her recent form suggests she’s maintained her competitiveness despite advancing age, and the class relief could spark improvement. However, questions remain about her ability to handle the likely fast pace given her tactical running style.
Additional Contenders
Dwelling Legacy (3-1) receives significant weight relief with apprentice jockey Yedsit Hazlewood at just 120 pounds. The Gary Capuano trainee could benefit from the light impost if able to secure a favorable position. Her recent form suggests she’s capable of competing at this level.
Burner Account (6-1) represents trainer Miguel Rodriguez with Anthony Salgado taking the riding assignment. At just three years old, she could be improving and offers potential value if able to secure a good trip.
Mudslide (10-1) completes the field for trainer Kelly Lynn Deiter with Xavier Perez aboard. While appearing overmatched on paper, sprint races can produce surprising results with proper pace scenarios.
Pace Analysis
This sprint field appears loaded with tactical speed, creating an ideal scenario for closers like Vieux Carre. Drink This Cup, Summer’s Comin, and My Flicker all possess early speed that could create honest fractions.
The 5.5-furlong distance provides little margin for error, making early positioning crucial. However, the competitive nature of this field suggests strong early fractions that should set up perfectly for horses with closing ability.
Key Training and Jockey Angles
Julio Hernandez’s presence on Drink This Cup adds credibility given his current success at the Delaware Park meet. His ability to judge pace and position horses effectively makes him a significant factor in this competitive field.
The weight breaks for Dwelling Legacy and Burner Account with their respective apprentice jockeys could prove crucial in a tightly contested sprint. Light weight combined with tactical speed could provide advantages in the final furlong.
Class and Form Analysis
Drink This Cup’s destruction of her last field provides the strongest recent form, though the pace scenario may not favor her style. The multiple next-out winners from that race suggest she defeated legitimate competition.
Summer’s Comin’s course and distance form creates confidence for this assignment, particularly if she can recapture her better efforts from earlier in the year. Her familiarity with the track and distance provides a significant advantage.
Wagering Recommendations
Win Bet: Vieux Carre offers exceptional value at 10-1 in a pace-favoring scenario. Her closing ability should prove decisive if the expected early pace battle materializes.
Value Play: While Drink This Cup is favored, her odds appear short given the pace concerns. Vieux Carre and Summer’s Comin both offer better value propositions.
Exacta Strategy: Key Vieux Carre on top with Drink This Cup and Summer’s Comin providing logical coverage underneath. The pace scenario strongly suggests the closer will be coming with a strong late run.
Pace Angle: The sprint distance combined with multiple speed horses creates an ideal setup for late runners. Vieux Carre’s style fits perfectly with the projected scenario, making her the most logical selection despite generous odds.
The race sets up as a classic pace-favoring scenario where the early speed battle should set up perfectly for a closing kick from Vieux Carre.
Race 9 – $22,000 Claiming (6 Furlongs)
Key Contenders: Where’s My Chew adds blinkers after a solid middle move in his last start despite a wide trip. The class relief from his recent efforts provides additional appeal in this spot.
Secondary Choices: Heaven’s Got Fire could secure the early lead and might prove difficult to catch if able to establish comfortable fractions. Tojo’s Mojo benefits from an easier assignment with his trainer-jockey combination showing 33% success in limited opportunities.
Longshots to Consider: Epitaph and Buzz Adams both offer value potential if able to recapture their better recent form efforts.
Pace Analysis: The sprint distance creates natural speed pressure, though the class level suggests moderate early fractions that could favor both speed and closers.
Wagering Recommendation: Where’s My Chew merits consideration with his equipment change and class relief, while Heaven’s Got Fire and Tojo’s Mojo provide reasonable exacta coverage.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Samuel Marin continues his excellent recent form after recording a riding triple on Wednesday, including a sweep of the late double. His current hot streak makes him a rider to follow closely, particularly on Rock the Rainbow in Race 5 where he retains the mount after her spectacular debut victory.
Martin Chuan leads the jockey colony with 53 wins and maintains the highest “added wins” statistic with 12.11 victories above expectation. His mount He’s in Charge in Race 2 represents excellent value given both rider and horse form.
Julio Hernandez sits second in the standings with 57 wins and leads all riders in purse earnings percentage at 19.73%. His multiple mounts today deserve respect based on his consistent performance throughout the meet.
Jose Batista continues to excel with limited opportunities, maintaining strong added wins statistics and solid purse earnings. His mount Lachicafortequila in Race 1 could offer value at generous odds.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Jamie Ness dominates the trainer standings with 60 wins, more than triple his nearest rival. His runner Sassafrassness in Race 7 benefits from his 37% win rate second off the claim following a victory, making her a standout selection.
The Russell training partnership shows strong form with both Brittany and Sheldon Russell saddling competitive runners. Their entries Royal Princess and Crusader Rabbit in Race 5 represent formidable challenges in the allowance event.
Gary Capuano sends out multiple runners including Hollywood Import in Race 3, a $50,000 auction purchase that suggests serious intentions. His barn’s recent activity indicates aggressive placement strategies.
Graham Motion leads trainers with 30+ starts in purse money percentage at 34.67%, making his entry Thula in Race 6 worth serious consideration despite her poor debut.
Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
Best Bets:
- Race 2: He’s in Charge (exceptional consistency in starter allowances)
- Race 7: Sassafrassness (dominant last win plus strong trainer statistics)
Value Plays:
- Race 1: Mikey’s Jewel (recent winner at generous odds)
- Race 8: Vieux Carre (pace scenario strongly favors her style)
Multi-Race Sequences:
Consider Pick 3 and Pick 4 combinations using He’s in Charge, Bolt Del Marea, and Sassafrassness as anchors in their respective races. The late Pick 4 (Races 6-9) offers potential value with Undertone, Sassafrassness, Vieux Carre, and Where’s My Chew providing reasonable coverage.
Exacta Strategies:
Focus on races with clear favorites and logical secondary choices, particularly Race 2 (He’s in Charge with Al Ameeq/The Heights) and Race 7 (Sassafrassness with Naked Eye).
Previous Day Highlights
Wednesday’s card at Delaware Park featured Samuel Marin’s exceptional triple, highlighted by his late double sweep with St. Jude ($7.80) for Benjamin Perkins Jr. and Duela Dent ($9.40) for Alberto Plaza. Angel Cruz also enjoyed success with a pair of victories, including first-timer Keystone State ($9.60) for Cal Lynch and Big Hat Willie ($10.80) for Rob Atras in a starter optional claiming event.
The late Pick 3 returned $40.25 (8-9-6), while the Pick 4 paid $224.30 (6-8-9-6), indicating competitive action throughout the card. Peridot Pendant’s victory in the eighth race provided value at odds of 11/8, demonstrating the competitive nature of Delaware Park’s claiming and allowance events.
These findings underscore the significance of tracking hot riders such as Marin and recognizing trainers making bold moves based on recent claims. These patterns persistently offer valuable opportunities for sharp handicappers.
